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The
Sunny-Steps
Approach
Our educational approach is a blend of the Reggio Emilia model of early childhood development and the principles set forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This approach includes several things:
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All activities and lessons are play-based and planned based on the NAEYC standards for Developmentally Appropriate Practices.
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Our classrooms are child-centered. The interests, strengths, and opportunities of each child are considered when planning activities.
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Exploring with our senses is encouraged! Sensory play is a large component of learning in our program.
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Age-appropriate practical life skills are taught, much like Montessori and Waldorf models.
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Unlike the Montessori and Waldorf models, the Reggio Emilia model places importance in individual creativity to support the cognitive, physical, and social development of children. This is typically seen as dramatic play such as kitchens or grocery stores, art projects, or music.
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Interpersonal skills are encouraged with group activities and project collaboration.
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Our approach is one we believe to be effective in the healthy development of young minds and bodies, and is backed by decades of research. Our goal is to provide all students in our program with a welcoming space of laughter, learning, collaboration, and fun!